Invitation Timing
Whether you’re mailing invitations or inviting guests by phone or email, timing is key
Send an invitation too late and the guest may already be booked; send it too early and it might be misplaced or forgotten. The following guidelines aren’t set in stone, but will give you an idea of when to mail various types of invitations. Err on the early side if your event is important or the guest list is large.
The Event |
When to Invite |
| Anniversary party | 3 to 6 weeks |
| Bar or Bat Mitzvah | 1 month |
| Bon Voyage party | Last minute to 3 weeks |
| Casual party | Same day to 2 weeks |
| Charity Ball | 6 weeks to 3 months |
| Christmas party | 1 month |
| Cocktail party | 1 to 4 weeks |
| Debutante Ball | 6 weeks to 3 months |
| Formal dinner | 3 to 6 weeks |
| Graduation party | 3 weeks |
| Housewarming party | A few days to 3 weeks |
| Informal dinner | A few days to 3 weeks |
| Lunch or Tea | A few days to 2 weeks |
| Holiday dinner | 2 weeks to 2 months |
